US20080232623A1 - Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device - Google Patents
Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080232623A1 US20080232623A1 US11/689,362 US68936207A US2008232623A1 US 20080232623 A1 US20080232623 A1 US 20080232623A1 US 68936207 A US68936207 A US 68936207A US 2008232623 A1 US2008232623 A1 US 2008232623A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- power
- hearing assistance
- assistance device
- connector
- dai
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
- H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
- H04R25/602—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of batteries
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
- H04R25/55—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired
- H04R25/556—External connectors, e.g. plugs or modules
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
- H04R2225/31—Aspects of the use of accumulators in hearing aids, e.g. rechargeable batteries or fuel cells
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R2420/00—Details of connection covered by H04R, not provided for in its groups
- H04R2420/07—Applications of wireless loudspeakers or wireless microphones
Definitions
- This disclosure relates generally to hearing assistance devices, and more particularly to systems for providing power to hearing assistance devices.
- Hearing assistance devices include hearing aids and other assistive listening devices and systems. Such devices are often compact, portable and traditionally utilize one-time-use batteries, since the energy density of these batteries has thus far been superior to rechargeable power sources. Recent breakthroughs in rechargeable batteries have made it possible to consider using them in hearing instruments.
- Hearing instruments worn behind the ear (BTE) and on the ear (OTE) are usually equipped with a standard Direct Audio Input (DAI) connector primarily for the purpose of connecting them to audio inputs such as assisted listening devices (ALDs) or assisted listening systems (ALSs).
- ALDs and ALSs may include FM and Infrared systems as well as Bluetooth® equipped devices.
- These devices may require a power connection from the hearing instrument so the standard DAI connector includes a direct connection to the battery voltage within the hearing instrument.
- the DAI connector includes an audio input and ground.
- the apparatus includes a connector to connect to the DAI-compatible interface.
- the connector includes audio and ground connections compatible with the DAI-compatible interface.
- the connector further includes a power connection adapted to provide power to the hearing assistance device.
- the apparatus also includes a power source electrically connected to the connector.
- the device includes a microphone, a housing, and hearing assistance electronics disposed within the housing and in communication with the microphone to receive and process signals from the microphone.
- the device also includes a receiver in communication with the hearing assistance electronics to play processed signals from the hearing assistance electronics.
- the device further includes an interface compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals, the interface further including a connection for receipt of electrical power from the external source.
- DAI direct audio input
- the external source is external to the housing.
- the method includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector.
- the method also includes charging a rechargeable battery via the DAI connector using the power supply, where the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device.
- DAI direct audio input
- the method includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector.
- the method also includes providing power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector using the power supply.
- providing power to the hearing assistance device includes providing power to supplement power provided by a battery for the hearing assistance device.
- DAI direct audio input
- FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a hearing assistance device and an external apparatus for providing power to the device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 1B illustrates a block diagram of an apparatus for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 1C illustrates a block diagram of a hearing assistance device adapted to receive power from an external source, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a connected hearing assistance device and power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a hearing assistance system, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of a power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 4A illustrates a block diagram of a power charger apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 4B illustrates a block diagram of a power supply and charger apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 4C illustrates a block diagram of a power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for recharging a hearing assistance device battery, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a hearing assistance device 50 and an external apparatus 10 for providing power to the device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter.
- the external power apparatus 10 is adapted to connect to a DAI connector 60 of the hearing assistance device. Power is provided from the external apparatus 10 to the hearing assistance device 50 via a power pin 61 and a ground pin 62 of the DAI connector 60 .
- the DAI connector 60 includes a third pin, an audio pin 63 , which is not connected to the external power apparatus 10 in the depicted embodiment.
- the external apparatus includes audio signal circuitry and the audio pin 63 is used to transfer audio signals between the apparatus 10 and the device 50 .
- FIG. 1B illustrates a block diagram of an apparatus for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment.
- the apparatus 10 is adapted for connection to a hearing assistance device having a DAI compatible interface compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals.
- the apparatus 10 includes a connector 20 to connect to the DAI-compatible interface.
- the connector 20 includes audio 23 and ground 22 connections compatible with the DAI-compatible interface.
- the connector 20 further includes a power connection 21 adapted to provide power to the hearing assistance device.
- the apparatus also includes a power source 30 electrically connected to the connector.
- the power source 30 includes an energy storing device contained in a housing and the connector is mounted to the housing.
- energy storing devices include, but are not limited to, one-time-use batteries, capacitors, and inductors, and rechargeable batteries, capacitors, and inductors. While applicant uses the term battery for various examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that other types of energy storing devices can be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
- the power source, housing, and connector are adapted to be lightweight and portable such that the apparatus can be worn during use, according to an embodiment.
- the power source 30 includes a power conditioning circuit.
- One type of power conditioning circuit is a regulator.
- a regulator can be used to control current, voltage and/or power provided by the power source.
- the power source is adapted to charge one or more energy storing device (such as batteries) within the hearing assistance device, according to an embodiment.
- the power source includes a battery disposed within a housing and the connector is attached to the battery, and the power source includes power conditioning circuit, such as a regulator, to control power delivered by the apparatus for controllably powering or charging or powering and charging the hearing assistance device.
- the apparatus 10 further includes wireless communication electronics 40 and/or a microphone 45 , in various embodiments.
- the power source with the apparatus includes rechargeable energy storing devices (such as rechargeable batteries), in an embodiment.
- the power source includes one-time-use energy storing devices.
- FIG. 1C illustrates a block diagram of a hearing assistance device 50 adapted to receive power from an external source, according to one embodiment.
- the device 50 includes a microphone 54 , a housing 52 , and hearing assistance electronics 56 disposed within the housing and in communication with the microphone to receive and process signals from the microphone.
- the device also includes a receiver 58 in communication with the hearing assistance electronics 56 to play processed signals from the hearing assistance electronics.
- the device further includes an interface 70 compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals, the interface 70 further including a connection 71 for receipt of electrical power from the external source.
- DAI direct audio input
- the external source is external to the housing 52 .
- the device 50 further includes a power conditioning circuit, such as regulator 72 , for regulating electrical power received from the external source.
- the hearing assistance device 50 further includes one or more batteries and battery charging electronics adapted to charge the one or more batteries using power from the external source, according to an embodiment.
- the hearing assistance device 50 further includes one or more batteries disposed within the housing and battery charging electronics adapted to controllably supplement power provided to the hearing assistance electronics by the one or more batteries with power from the external source.
- the hearing assistance device 50 further includes one or more batteries disposed within the housing and battery charging electronics adapted to bypass the one or more batteries to connect the hearing assistance electronics to power from the external source, in varying embodiments.
- FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a connected hearing assistance device 120 and power supply adapter 122 , according to one embodiment.
- the power supply adapter 122 is designed to connect to the hearing assistance device 120 .
- a system for providing power to an existing hearing assistance device 120 includes a hearing assistance device housing 102 sized for mating with a human ear, the mass of the hearing assistance device 120 supportable by the human ear.
- the hearing assistance device housing 102 is a self-powered behind-the-ear hearing assistance device.
- the hearing assistance device housing 102 includes hearing assistance device electronics, a hearing assistance device speaker 126 , a hearing assistance device port 116 for transmitting sound to an earpiece, a hearing assistance device microphone 124 and a hearing assistance device connector 104 .
- the connector 104 provides for a wired connection in varying examples.
- the connector 104 includes pads, such as gold plated metallic pads, suitable for forming multiple connections with terminals, such as spring-loaded pin-shaped terminals.
- the hearing assistance device connector 104 includes a mechanical lock.
- the mechanical lock is releasable.
- the mechanical lock is constructed to support the weight of a mating connector and its associated components.
- the hearing assistance device connector 104 is a Direct Audio Input (DAI) type connector 104 .
- DAI Direct Audio Input
- a connector is formed to mate with the DAI connector which includes a “boot” that surrounds at least a portion of the DAI connector.
- the boot may also mechanically interface with the lower portion of the behind-the-ear hearing aid proximal the DAI connector.
- the boot includes silicon or plastic. Such embodiments can be adapted to support at least some or all of the weight of the components attached to the boot. In various embodiments, the boot serves to improve comfort.
- the Direct Audio Input in varying embodiments, is connected to hearing assistance device electronics which can control varying aspects of hearing assistance device function.
- the power supply adapter 122 includes a power supply adapter connector 108 and a boot 106 which forms a mechanical connection with the hearing assistance device housing 102 .
- the boot 106 and the connector 108 form components typical of DAI connector sets, however, the present subject matter is not limited to these variants.
- connector 108 combined with the boot 106 is suited to use fricative cohesion, adhesives, elastic deformation of the boot, or any combination of these to form a mechanical connection with the hearing assistance device 120 , with or without the assistance of the hearing assistance device connector 104 .
- many embodiments use the boot 106 , others do not, and, in general, the examples listed here should not be understood to be exhaustive or exclusive. Another embodiment without a boot will be demonstrated by FIG. 3A and its related figures and description provided below.
- the power supply adapter 122 includes a power supply adapter housing 118 , in varying examples, which contains a power source.
- the electronics operate independent of notification to a user, but some embodiments communicate information to the user using visual indicators 110 , or other types of indicators.
- FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a hearing assistance system, according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 2B illustrates the hearing assistance device 120 connected to the power supply adapter 122 , and further illustrates a connected hearing assistance device 120 and power supply adapter 122 mounted on an ear 208 of a user.
- the power supply adapter 122 and hearing assistance device 120 are sized for comfortable use on an ear 208 , including aspects which restrict the mass of the apparatus.
- the illustration also demonstrates one embodiment of a tube 202 for conducting sound to an earpiece 204 , the earpiece custom fitted to the user, which, in varying examples, allows for a standardized hearing assistance device 120 .
- Other earpieces, such as vented designs, are contemplated without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.
- the power supply adapter includes wireless communication circuitry and is adapted to facilitate wireless communication of information 210 with a remote device (not shown).
- a remote device not shown
- wireless communication from this type of adapter is discussed in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/207,591, “Wireless Communications Adapter for a Hearing Assistance Device”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- some embodiments of the power supply adapter include a boom 112 and a microphone 114 , the boom 112 extending away from the power supply adapter housing 118 to a distal end.
- the microphone 114 is shown positioned at the distal end of the boom 112 , but the microphone can be positioned elsewhere without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
- FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a power supply adapter, according to one embodiment.
- the power supply adapter 300 A includes a DAI connector 306 .
- the connector 306 may be adjustable so that it can swivel to position the power supply adapter 300 A at different angles to the device connected to connector 306 .
- the power supply adapter 300 A includes a housing 304 including one or more buttons 310 to perform functions.
- the wireless communication adapter 300 A in various embodiments, also includes one or more indicators 308 to indicate aspects of the operation of the device. Placement and types of buttons and indicators may vary without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a power supply adapter, according to one embodiment.
- the power supply adapter 300 A includes a DAI connector 306 .
- the connector 306 may be adjustable so that it can swivel to position the power supply adapter 300 A at different angles to the device connected to connector 306 .
- the power supply adapter 300 A
- FIG. 3B illustrates another variation of a power supply adapter 300 B including the aspects set forth for power supply adapter 300 A and including an optional volume control 314 and an optional accessory port 316 .
- the position and types of volume control 314 and port 316 may vary without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.
- the power supply adapter may be embodied in several designs having varying form factors and features without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 4A illustrates a block diagram of a power charger adapter apparatus, according to one embodiment.
- the apparatus 400 includes a connector 402 adapted to electrically connect to the direct audio input (DAI) connector of a hearing assistance device.
- the connector 402 has three pins, one for audio, one for power, and one for ground.
- the apparatus 400 also includes a power source 404 adapted to provide power to the apparatus and to provide power to a charger 406 to charge a rechargeable battery (not shown) via the DAI connector.
- the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device, according to an embodiment.
- the apparatus also includes a housing 408 for the power source 404 and the charger 406 , and the housing is adapted to accommodate the connector 402 .
- the apparatus is adapted to be compact and portable.
- the power source 404 may include a battery, such as a disposable or rechargeable battery in varying embodiments. If a rechargeable battery is used for the adapter, it can be recharged through a direct connection or an inductive charging system.
- the apparatus 400 also includes a controller (not shown) adapted to communicate with the audio pin of the DAI connector 402 , and wireless communication electronics 410 adapted for radio frequency communications and for communication with the controller.
- the housing 408 is adapted to accommodate the controller and the wireless communication electronics 410 .
- the wireless communication electronics 410 includes a Bluetooth set with input and outputs including, but not limited to, audio out 411 , power in 412 , multifunction control 413 , LED indicator 414 , directional microphone 415 , and antenna 416 .
- Other types of wireless communication electronics for other types of wireless communication are within the scope of this disclosure.
- the wireless communication electronics may also reside in a housing separate from the apparatus housing 408 , according to varying embodiments.
- the apparatus 400 also includes a regulator 407 connected between the power source 404 and the wireless communication electronics 410 , the regulator adapted to regulate power supplied by the power source to the communication electronics.
- the apparatus 400 also includes a protection circuit 404 connected between the charger 406 and the DAI connector 402 , the protection circuit adapted to prevent current drain from the rechargeable battery.
- the rechargeable battery is external to the apparatus, for powering the hearing assistance device. Charging the rechargeable battery includes providing power from an AC/DC adapter, in various embodiments.
- the hearing assistance device connected to the adapter apparatus is configured to accept power through a pin on its DAI connector.
- the hearing assistance device includes a diode or other type of regulator at this input to prevent current drain and allow incoming current for powering and/or recharging the hearing assistance device.
- FIG. 4C illustrates a block diagram of a power supply adapter apparatus, according to one embodiment.
- the apparatus 440 includes a connector 402 adapted to electrically connect to the direct audio input (DAI) connector of a hearing assistance device.
- the apparatus 440 also includes a power source 404 adapted to provide power to the apparatus and to provide power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector.
- the apparatus further includes a housing 408 for the power source, the housing adapted to accommodate the connector 402 .
- the apparatus is adapted to be compact and portable.
- the apparatus 440 further includes a regulator 424 connected between the power source 404 and the DAI connector 402 , according to various embodiments, The regulator 424 is adapted to regulate power supplied by the power source to the hearing aid.
- the power source 404 includes a rechargeable power source.
- the hearing assistance device includes a battery, so that the apparatus 440 provides supplemental power to the device. In other embodiments, the hearing assistance device does not include a battery, so that the apparatus 440 provides the primary power source to the device.
- FIG. 4B illustrates a block diagram of a power supply and charger adapter apparatus, according to one embodiment.
- the apparatus 420 includes the functions of a charger (as in FIG. 4A ) and power supply (as in FIG. 4C ).
- the power source 404 is adapted to provide power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector and is further adapted to provide power to a charger 406 to charge a rechargeable battery via the DAI connector, wherein the rechargeable battery (external to the apparatus) is adapted to power the hearing assistance device.
- the apparatus 420 further includes a switching means, such as power function detector 422 , connected between the DAI connector 402 , the regulator 424 , and the charger 406 , the switching means adapted to place the apparatus in either a charging or powering mode for supplying the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector.
- the switching means may be programmable, user selectable, and may be a hardware or software switch.
- the power function detector 422 includes sensing circuitry, according to various embodiments.
- the detector 422 senses power, voltage and/or current from the hearing assistance device, in varying embodiments. If a sensed value (of power, voltage or current) is below a programmable threshold, the detector 422 causes the power source within the DAI adapter to switch on and supply power for the hearing assistance device either for normal operation, or for charging a rechargeable energy storing device in the hearing assistance device, or for a combination of charging and operating the device, in various embodiments.
- the detector 422 makes various impedance measurements to determine the proper method for recharging the power source in the device, in an embodiment.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for recharging a hearing assistance device battery, according to one embodiment.
- the method 500 includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector, at 502 .
- the method also includes charging a rechargeable battery via the DAI connector using the power supply, where the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device, at 504 .
- DAI direct audio input
- the method further includes providing power to the hearing assistance device via the DAT connector using the power supply.
- the method also includes switching from charging to providing power using a user selectable switch.
- the method includes switching from charging to providing power based on a sensed parameter measured from the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector.
- the method includes transferring audio from the hearing assistance device to wireless communication electronics via the DAI connector using the power supply, and in an embodiment the wireless communication electronics are housed with the power supply.
- Charging a rechargeable battery includes providing power from an AC/DC adapter, according to various embodiments.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment.
- the method 600 includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector, at 602 .
- the method also includes providing power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector using the power supply, at 604 .
- providing power to the hearing assistance device includes providing power to supplement power provided by a battery for the hearing assistance device.
- DAI direct audio input
- the method also includes charging a rechargeable energy storing device, such as a battery, via the DAI connector using the power supply, where the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device, and where a user selects charging or providing power.
- Providing power to the device includes using a ground pin and a power pin of the DAI connector, according to various embodiments.
- the method includes providing power to wireless communication electronics, the wireless communication electronics within a housing of the power supply apparatus and adapted to receive audio from the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector.
- Providing power to the hearing assistance device includes using a rechargeable energy storing device, such as a battery, housed with the power supply, in various embodiments.
Abstract
Description
- This disclosure relates generally to hearing assistance devices, and more particularly to systems for providing power to hearing assistance devices.
- Hearing assistance devices include hearing aids and other assistive listening devices and systems. Such devices are often compact, portable and traditionally utilize one-time-use batteries, since the energy density of these batteries has thus far been superior to rechargeable power sources. Recent breakthroughs in rechargeable batteries have made it possible to consider using them in hearing instruments. Hearing instruments worn behind the ear (BTE) and on the ear (OTE) are usually equipped with a standard Direct Audio Input (DAI) connector primarily for the purpose of connecting them to audio inputs such as assisted listening devices (ALDs) or assisted listening systems (ALSs). The ALDs and ALSs may include FM and Infrared systems as well as Bluetooth® equipped devices. These devices may require a power connection from the hearing instrument so the standard DAI connector includes a direct connection to the battery voltage within the hearing instrument. In addition to the battery connection, the DAI connector includes an audio input and ground.
- Improved systems for providing power to hearing assistance devices are needed.
- Disclosed herein, among other things, is an apparatus for connection to a hearing assistance device having a DAI compatible interface compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals. According to an embodiment, the apparatus includes a connector to connect to the DAI-compatible interface. The connector includes audio and ground connections compatible with the DAI-compatible interface. The connector further includes a power connection adapted to provide power to the hearing assistance device. The apparatus also includes a power source electrically connected to the connector.
- Disclosed herein, among other things, is a hearing assistance device adapted to receive power from an external source. According to an embodiment, the device includes a microphone, a housing, and hearing assistance electronics disposed within the housing and in communication with the microphone to receive and process signals from the microphone. The device also includes a receiver in communication with the hearing assistance electronics to play processed signals from the hearing assistance electronics. The device further includes an interface compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals, the interface further including a connection for receipt of electrical power from the external source. According to various embodiments, the external source is external to the housing.
- Disclosed herein, among other things, is a method for recharging a hearing assistance device battery. According to an embodiment, the method includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector. The method also includes charging a rechargeable battery via the DAI connector using the power supply, where the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device.
- Disclosed herein, among other things, is a method for providing power to a hearing assistance device. According to an embodiment, the method includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector. The method also includes providing power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector using the power supply. According to various embodiments, providing power to the hearing assistance device includes providing power to supplement power provided by a battery for the hearing assistance device.
- This Summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details about the present subject matter are found in the detailed description and appended claims. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
-
FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a hearing assistance device and an external apparatus for providing power to the device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 1B illustrates a block diagram of an apparatus for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 1C illustrates a block diagram of a hearing assistance device adapted to receive power from an external source, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a connected hearing assistance device and power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a hearing assistance system, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of a power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 4A illustrates a block diagram of a power charger apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 4B illustrates a block diagram of a power supply and charger apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 4C illustrates a block diagram of a power supply apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for recharging a hearing assistance device battery, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. - The following detailed description of the present subject matter refers to subject matter in the accompanying drawings which show, by way of illustration, specific aspects and embodiments in which the present subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. References to “an”, “one”, or “various” embodiments in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate more than one embodiment. The following detailed description is demonstrative and not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present subject matter is defined by the appended claims, along with the full scope of legal equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
-
FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of ahearing assistance device 50 and anexternal apparatus 10 for providing power to the device, according to one embodiment of the present subject matter. Theexternal power apparatus 10 is adapted to connect to aDAI connector 60 of the hearing assistance device. Power is provided from theexternal apparatus 10 to thehearing assistance device 50 via apower pin 61 and aground pin 62 of theDAI connector 60. TheDAI connector 60 includes a third pin, anaudio pin 63, which is not connected to theexternal power apparatus 10 in the depicted embodiment. In varying embodiments, the external apparatus includes audio signal circuitry and theaudio pin 63 is used to transfer audio signals between theapparatus 10 and thedevice 50. -
FIG. 1B illustrates a block diagram of an apparatus for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment. Theapparatus 10 is adapted for connection to a hearing assistance device having a DAI compatible interface compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals. According to an embodiment, theapparatus 10 includes aconnector 20 to connect to the DAI-compatible interface. Theconnector 20 includesaudio 23 andground 22 connections compatible with the DAI-compatible interface. Theconnector 20 further includes apower connection 21 adapted to provide power to the hearing assistance device. The apparatus also includes apower source 30 electrically connected to the connector. - According to various embodiments, the
power source 30 includes an energy storing device contained in a housing and the connector is mounted to the housing. Examples of energy storing devices include, but are not limited to, one-time-use batteries, capacitors, and inductors, and rechargeable batteries, capacitors, and inductors. While applicant uses the term battery for various examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that other types of energy storing devices can be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The power source, housing, and connector are adapted to be lightweight and portable such that the apparatus can be worn during use, according to an embodiment. - In varying embodiments, the
power source 30 includes a power conditioning circuit. One type of power conditioning circuit is a regulator. A regulator can be used to control current, voltage and/or power provided by the power source. The power source is adapted to charge one or more energy storing device (such as batteries) within the hearing assistance device, according to an embodiment. In another embodiment, the power source includes a battery disposed within a housing and the connector is attached to the battery, and the power source includes power conditioning circuit, such as a regulator, to control power delivered by the apparatus for controllably powering or charging or powering and charging the hearing assistance device. Theapparatus 10 further includeswireless communication electronics 40 and/or amicrophone 45, in various embodiments. The power source with the apparatus includes rechargeable energy storing devices (such as rechargeable batteries), in an embodiment. In various embodiments, the power source includes one-time-use energy storing devices. -
FIG. 1C illustrates a block diagram of ahearing assistance device 50 adapted to receive power from an external source, according to one embodiment. According to an embodiment, thedevice 50 includes amicrophone 54, ahousing 52, andhearing assistance electronics 56 disposed within the housing and in communication with the microphone to receive and process signals from the microphone. The device also includes areceiver 58 in communication with thehearing assistance electronics 56 to play processed signals from the hearing assistance electronics. The device further includes aninterface 70 compatible with direct audio input (DAI) signals, theinterface 70 further including aconnection 71 for receipt of electrical power from the external source. According to various embodiments, the external source is external to thehousing 52. - According to various embodiments, the
device 50 further includes a power conditioning circuit, such asregulator 72, for regulating electrical power received from the external source. Thehearing assistance device 50 further includes one or more batteries and battery charging electronics adapted to charge the one or more batteries using power from the external source, according to an embodiment. According to an embodiment, thehearing assistance device 50 further includes one or more batteries disposed within the housing and battery charging electronics adapted to controllably supplement power provided to the hearing assistance electronics by the one or more batteries with power from the external source. Thehearing assistance device 50 further includes one or more batteries disposed within the housing and battery charging electronics adapted to bypass the one or more batteries to connect the hearing assistance electronics to power from the external source, in varying embodiments. -
FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a connectedhearing assistance device 120 andpower supply adapter 122, according to one embodiment. Thepower supply adapter 122 is designed to connect to thehearing assistance device 120. In varying embodiments, a system for providing power to an existinghearing assistance device 120 includes a hearingassistance device housing 102 sized for mating with a human ear, the mass of thehearing assistance device 120 supportable by the human ear. In one example, the hearingassistance device housing 102 is a self-powered behind-the-ear hearing assistance device. In the example, the hearingassistance device housing 102 includes hearing assistance device electronics, a hearingassistance device speaker 126, a hearingassistance device port 116 for transmitting sound to an earpiece, a hearingassistance device microphone 124 and a hearingassistance device connector 104. - The
connector 104 provides for a wired connection in varying examples. In one embodiment, theconnector 104 includes pads, such as gold plated metallic pads, suitable for forming multiple connections with terminals, such as spring-loaded pin-shaped terminals. However, in additional examples, the hearingassistance device connector 104 includes a mechanical lock. In various embodiments, the mechanical lock is releasable. In one example, the mechanical lock is constructed to support the weight of a mating connector and its associated components. - In one embodiment, the hearing
assistance device connector 104 is a Direct Audio Input (DAI)type connector 104. In some varying designs, a connector is formed to mate with the DAI connector which includes a “boot” that surrounds at least a portion of the DAI connector. In embodiments involving behind-the-ear hearing aids, the boot may also mechanically interface with the lower portion of the behind-the-ear hearing aid proximal the DAI connector. In varying embodiments the boot includes silicon or plastic. Such embodiments can be adapted to support at least some or all of the weight of the components attached to the boot. In various embodiments, the boot serves to improve comfort. The Direct Audio Input, in varying embodiments, is connected to hearing assistance device electronics which can control varying aspects of hearing assistance device function. - Mateable to the
hearing assistance device 120 is apower supply adapter 122. In varying embodiments, thepower supply adapter 122 includes a powersupply adapter connector 108 and aboot 106 which forms a mechanical connection with the hearingassistance device housing 102. In varying embodiments, theboot 106 and theconnector 108 form components typical of DAI connector sets, however, the present subject matter is not limited to these variants. In varying examples,connector 108 combined with theboot 106 is suited to use fricative cohesion, adhesives, elastic deformation of the boot, or any combination of these to form a mechanical connection with thehearing assistance device 120, with or without the assistance of the hearingassistance device connector 104. Although many embodiments use theboot 106, others do not, and, in general, the examples listed here should not be understood to be exhaustive or exclusive. Another embodiment without a boot will be demonstrated byFIG. 3A and its related figures and description provided below. - The
power supply adapter 122 includes a powersupply adapter housing 118, in varying examples, which contains a power source. In varying embodiments, the electronics operate independent of notification to a user, but some embodiments communicate information to the user usingvisual indicators 110, or other types of indicators. -
FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a hearing assistance system, according to one embodiment.FIG. 2B illustrates thehearing assistance device 120 connected to thepower supply adapter 122, and further illustrates a connectedhearing assistance device 120 andpower supply adapter 122 mounted on anear 208 of a user. In varying designs, thepower supply adapter 122 andhearing assistance device 120 are sized for comfortable use on anear 208, including aspects which restrict the mass of the apparatus. The illustration also demonstrates one embodiment of atube 202 for conducting sound to anearpiece 204, the earpiece custom fitted to the user, which, in varying examples, allows for a standardizedhearing assistance device 120. Other earpieces, such as vented designs, are contemplated without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. - According to various embodiments, the power supply adapter includes wireless communication circuitry and is adapted to facilitate wireless communication of
information 210 with a remote device (not shown). One example using wireless communication from this type of adapter is discussed in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/207,591, “Wireless Communications Adapter for a Hearing Assistance Device”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. When used as a communications adapter, some embodiments of the power supply adapter include aboom 112 and amicrophone 114, theboom 112 extending away from the powersupply adapter housing 118 to a distal end. Themicrophone 114 is shown positioned at the distal end of theboom 112, but the microphone can be positioned elsewhere without departing from the scope of this disclosure. -
FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a power supply adapter, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, thepower supply adapter 300A includes aDAI connector 306. In some embodiments, theconnector 306 may be adjustable so that it can swivel to position thepower supply adapter 300A at different angles to the device connected toconnector 306. In various embodiments, thepower supply adapter 300A includes ahousing 304 including one ormore buttons 310 to perform functions. Thewireless communication adapter 300A, in various embodiments, also includes one ormore indicators 308 to indicate aspects of the operation of the device. Placement and types of buttons and indicators may vary without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.FIG. 3B illustrates another variation of apower supply adapter 300B including the aspects set forth forpower supply adapter 300A and including anoptional volume control 314 and an optionalaccessory port 316. The position and types ofvolume control 314 andport 316 may vary without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. - Thus, the power supply adapter may be embodied in several designs having varying form factors and features without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.
-
FIG. 4A illustrates a block diagram of a power charger adapter apparatus, according to one embodiment. Theapparatus 400 includes aconnector 402 adapted to electrically connect to the direct audio input (DAI) connector of a hearing assistance device. In the present embodiment, theconnector 402 has three pins, one for audio, one for power, and one for ground. Theapparatus 400 also includes apower source 404 adapted to provide power to the apparatus and to provide power to acharger 406 to charge a rechargeable battery (not shown) via the DAI connector. The rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device, according to an embodiment. The apparatus also includes ahousing 408 for thepower source 404 and thecharger 406, and the housing is adapted to accommodate theconnector 402. According to various embodiments, the apparatus is adapted to be compact and portable. Thepower source 404 may include a battery, such as a disposable or rechargeable battery in varying embodiments. If a rechargeable battery is used for the adapter, it can be recharged through a direct connection or an inductive charging system. - According to one embodiment, the
apparatus 400 also includes a controller (not shown) adapted to communicate with the audio pin of theDAI connector 402, andwireless communication electronics 410 adapted for radio frequency communications and for communication with the controller. Thehousing 408 is adapted to accommodate the controller and thewireless communication electronics 410. In the depicted embodiment, thewireless communication electronics 410 includes a Bluetooth set with input and outputs including, but not limited to, audio out 411, power in 412,multifunction control 413,LED indicator 414,directional microphone 415, andantenna 416. Other types of wireless communication electronics for other types of wireless communication (inductive telemetry, infrared, FM, RF, for example) are within the scope of this disclosure. The wireless communication electronics may also reside in a housing separate from theapparatus housing 408, according to varying embodiments. In one embodiment, theapparatus 400 also includes aregulator 407 connected between thepower source 404 and thewireless communication electronics 410, the regulator adapted to regulate power supplied by the power source to the communication electronics. Theapparatus 400 also includes aprotection circuit 404 connected between thecharger 406 and theDAI connector 402, the protection circuit adapted to prevent current drain from the rechargeable battery. In the depicted embodiment, the rechargeable battery is external to the apparatus, for powering the hearing assistance device. Charging the rechargeable battery includes providing power from an AC/DC adapter, in various embodiments. - According to various embodiments, the hearing assistance device connected to the adapter apparatus is configured to accept power through a pin on its DAI connector. The hearing assistance device includes a diode or other type of regulator at this input to prevent current drain and allow incoming current for powering and/or recharging the hearing assistance device.
-
FIG. 4C illustrates a block diagram of a power supply adapter apparatus, according to one embodiment. Theapparatus 440 includes aconnector 402 adapted to electrically connect to the direct audio input (DAI) connector of a hearing assistance device. Theapparatus 440 also includes apower source 404 adapted to provide power to the apparatus and to provide power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector. The apparatus further includes ahousing 408 for the power source, the housing adapted to accommodate theconnector 402. According to various embodiments, the apparatus is adapted to be compact and portable. - The
apparatus 440 further includes aregulator 424 connected between thepower source 404 and theDAI connector 402, according to various embodiments, Theregulator 424 is adapted to regulate power supplied by the power source to the hearing aid. According to an embodiment, thepower source 404 includes a rechargeable power source. In some embodiments, the hearing assistance device includes a battery, so that theapparatus 440 provides supplemental power to the device. In other embodiments, the hearing assistance device does not include a battery, so that theapparatus 440 provides the primary power source to the device. -
FIG. 4B illustrates a block diagram of a power supply and charger adapter apparatus, according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, theapparatus 420 includes the functions of a charger (as inFIG. 4A ) and power supply (as inFIG. 4C ). Thepower source 404 is adapted to provide power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector and is further adapted to provide power to acharger 406 to charge a rechargeable battery via the DAI connector, wherein the rechargeable battery (external to the apparatus) is adapted to power the hearing assistance device. Theapparatus 420 further includes a switching means, such aspower function detector 422, connected between theDAI connector 402, theregulator 424, and thecharger 406, the switching means adapted to place the apparatus in either a charging or powering mode for supplying the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector. According to varying embodiments, the switching means may be programmable, user selectable, and may be a hardware or software switch. - The
power function detector 422 includes sensing circuitry, according to various embodiments. Thedetector 422 senses power, voltage and/or current from the hearing assistance device, in varying embodiments. If a sensed value (of power, voltage or current) is below a programmable threshold, thedetector 422 causes the power source within the DAI adapter to switch on and supply power for the hearing assistance device either for normal operation, or for charging a rechargeable energy storing device in the hearing assistance device, or for a combination of charging and operating the device, in various embodiments. Thedetector 422 makes various impedance measurements to determine the proper method for recharging the power source in the device, in an embodiment. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for recharging a hearing assistance device battery, according to one embodiment. According to an embodiment, themethod 500 includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector, at 502. The method also includes charging a rechargeable battery via the DAI connector using the power supply, where the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device, at 504. - According to various embodiments, the method further includes providing power to the hearing assistance device via the DAT connector using the power supply. In one embodiment, the method also includes switching from charging to providing power using a user selectable switch. In another embodiment, the method includes switching from charging to providing power based on a sensed parameter measured from the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector. The method includes transferring audio from the hearing assistance device to wireless communication electronics via the DAI connector using the power supply, and in an embodiment the wireless communication electronics are housed with the power supply. Charging a rechargeable battery includes providing power from an AC/DC adapter, according to various embodiments.
-
FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for providing power to a hearing assistance device, according to one embodiment. According to an embodiment, themethod 600 includes connecting a power supply to a hearing assistance device having a direct audio input (DAI) connector, at 602. The method also includes providing power to the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector using the power supply, at 604. According to various embodiments, providing power to the hearing assistance device includes providing power to supplement power provided by a battery for the hearing assistance device. - According to an embodiment, the method also includes charging a rechargeable energy storing device, such as a battery, via the DAI connector using the power supply, where the rechargeable battery is adapted to power the hearing assistance device, and where a user selects charging or providing power. Providing power to the device includes using a ground pin and a power pin of the DAI connector, according to various embodiments. In one embodiment, the method includes providing power to wireless communication electronics, the wireless communication electronics within a housing of the power supply apparatus and adapted to receive audio from the hearing assistance device via the DAI connector. Providing power to the hearing assistance device includes using a rechargeable energy storing device, such as a battery, housed with the power supply, in various embodiments.
- Variations of order, information or connections are possible without departing from the present teachings. The systems shown and described herein can be implemented using software, hardware, and combinations of software and hardware.
- Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, this application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the present subject matter should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
Claims (28)
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/689,362 US9100764B2 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2007-03-21 | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
CA002625236A CA2625236A1 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2008-03-07 | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
DK08250941.5T DK1973379T3 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2008-03-18 | System for providing power to a hearing aid device |
EP08250941A EP1973379B1 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2008-03-18 | System for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/689,362 US9100764B2 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2007-03-21 | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080232623A1 true US20080232623A1 (en) | 2008-09-25 |
US9100764B2 US9100764B2 (en) | 2015-08-04 |
Family
ID=39580598
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/689,362 Expired - Fee Related US9100764B2 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2007-03-21 | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US9100764B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1973379B1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2625236A1 (en) |
DK (1) | DK1973379T3 (en) |
Cited By (24)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060068842A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-03-30 | Jorge Sanguino | Wireless communications adapter for a hearing assistance device |
US20090141918A1 (en) * | 2007-11-29 | 2009-06-04 | Dutton Chris | Wireless listening system |
US20100142740A1 (en) * | 2007-04-16 | 2010-06-10 | Gn Resound A/S | Hearing aid wireless communication adaptor |
US20110069854A1 (en) * | 2009-09-21 | 2011-03-24 | Oticon A/S | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ite-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a bte-unit |
US20110103627A1 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2011-05-05 | Meier Roger S | Sound processors and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
DE102010026378A1 (en) * | 2010-07-07 | 2011-07-21 | Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. | Communication module for hearing instrument i.e. behind-the-ear hearing aid, for wireless transmission and receiving of digital data, has transceiver transmitting or receiving data that is transmitted through inductive transmission unit |
WO2011131241A1 (en) | 2010-04-22 | 2011-10-27 | Phonak Ag | Hearing assistance system and method |
US20120002831A1 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2012-01-05 | Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. | Electrical hearing aid adapter |
US20130010997A1 (en) * | 2011-07-04 | 2013-01-10 | Sony Corporation | Auricle-installed apparatus |
US8437860B1 (en) | 2008-10-03 | 2013-05-07 | Advanced Bionics, Llc | Hearing assistance system |
US8503708B2 (en) | 2010-04-08 | 2013-08-06 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Hearing assistance device with programmable direct audio input port |
US8515114B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2013-08-20 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US8958590B2 (en) | 2009-09-21 | 2015-02-17 | Oticon A/S | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ITE-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a BTE-unit |
US9036823B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2015-05-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US9100764B2 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2015-08-04 | Starkey Laboratory, Inc. | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
US9374648B2 (en) | 2010-04-22 | 2016-06-21 | Sonova Ag | Hearing assistance system and method |
US9491530B2 (en) | 2011-01-11 | 2016-11-08 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Sound processors having contamination resistant control panels and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US9628922B2 (en) * | 2014-02-24 | 2017-04-18 | Gn Hearing A/S | Hearing aid radio power supply |
US9774961B2 (en) | 2005-06-05 | 2017-09-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Hearing assistance device ear-to-ear communication using an intermediate device |
US10003379B2 (en) | 2014-05-06 | 2018-06-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless communication with probing bandwidth |
US10212682B2 (en) | 2009-12-21 | 2019-02-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Low power intermittent messaging for hearing assistance devices |
US10666067B2 (en) | 2018-06-19 | 2020-05-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Portable charging unit with accelerated charging for hearing assistance devices |
WO2021026474A1 (en) * | 2019-08-07 | 2021-02-11 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Connector tip with bristles for hearing instruments |
US11974099B2 (en) | 2022-01-31 | 2024-04-30 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Connector tip with bristles for hearing instruments |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP3503589B1 (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2022-07-20 | GN Hearing A/S | A hearing aid having combined antennas |
US9661426B2 (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2017-05-23 | Gn Hearing A/S | Hearing aid having combined antennas |
US9986323B2 (en) * | 2015-11-19 | 2018-05-29 | Logitech Europe, S.A. | Earphones with attachable expansion pack |
EP3427494A1 (en) * | 2016-03-09 | 2019-01-16 | Sonova AG | A hearing device and a method of adapting a hearing device |
US11109168B2 (en) * | 2017-05-19 | 2021-08-31 | Cochlear Limited | External device of prosthesis connector |
USD1009871S1 (en) * | 2021-03-25 | 2024-01-02 | Alpaka Pty. Ltd | Data cable lanyard |
Citations (35)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3493695A (en) * | 1967-03-10 | 1970-02-03 | Fredrick J Stork | Hearing aid |
US4961230A (en) * | 1988-05-10 | 1990-10-02 | Diaphon Development Ab | Hearing aid programming interface |
US5389009A (en) * | 1993-07-27 | 1995-02-14 | Van Schenck, Iii; George A. | Battery substitute device |
US5502769A (en) * | 1994-04-28 | 1996-03-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Interface module for programmable hearing instrument |
US5515443A (en) * | 1993-06-30 | 1996-05-07 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Interface for serial data trasmission between a hearing aid and a control device |
US5717771A (en) * | 1995-03-01 | 1998-02-10 | Siemens Audiologische Technik Gmbh | Programmable hearing aid means worn in the auditory canal |
US5721783A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-02-24 | Anderson; James C. | Hearing aid with wireless remote processor |
US6078825A (en) * | 1998-02-20 | 2000-06-20 | Advanced Mobile Solutions, Inc. | Modular wireless headset system for hands free talking |
US6144748A (en) * | 1997-03-31 | 2000-11-07 | Resound Corporation | Standard-compatible, power efficient digital audio interface |
US6157728A (en) * | 1996-05-25 | 2000-12-05 | Multitech Products (Pte) Ltd. | Universal self-attaching inductive coupling unit for connecting hearing instrument to peripheral electronic devices |
US6319020B1 (en) * | 1999-12-10 | 2001-11-20 | Sonic Innovations, Inc. | Programming connector for hearing devices |
US6381308B1 (en) * | 1998-12-03 | 2002-04-30 | Charles H. Cargo | Device for coupling hearing aid to telephone |
US20020090099A1 (en) * | 2001-01-08 | 2002-07-11 | Hwang Sung-Gul | Hands-free, wearable communication device for a wireless communication system |
US20020131614A1 (en) * | 2001-03-13 | 2002-09-19 | Andreas Jakob | Method for establishing a detachable mechanical and/or electrical connection |
US20030045283A1 (en) * | 2001-09-06 | 2003-03-06 | Hagedoorn Johan Jan | Bluetooth enabled hearing aid |
US20030133582A1 (en) * | 2002-01-14 | 2003-07-17 | Siemens Audiologische Technik Gmbh | Selection of communication connections in hearing aids |
US20040010181A1 (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2004-01-15 | Jim Feeley | BTE/CIC auditory device and modular connector system therefor |
US20040077387A1 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2004-04-22 | Alban Sayag | Wireless assembly comprising an ear pad and an intermediate module connected to a mobile telephone |
US6760457B1 (en) * | 2000-09-11 | 2004-07-06 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Automatic telephone switch for hearing aid |
US20040136555A1 (en) * | 2003-01-13 | 2004-07-15 | Mark Enzmann | Aided ear bud |
US20040141628A1 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2004-07-22 | Fellowes, Inc. | Earpiece with interchangeable end portion |
US20050008178A1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2005-01-13 | Sonion Roskilde A/S | Control panel with activation zone |
US6888948B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2005-05-03 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Portable system programming hearing aids |
US20050209657A1 (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2005-09-22 | King Chung | Enhancing cochlear implants with hearing aid signal processing technologies |
US20060039577A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-02-23 | Jorge Sanguino | Method and apparatus for wireless communication using an inductive interface |
US20060068842A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-03-30 | Jorge Sanguino | Wireless communications adapter for a hearing assistance device |
US7054957B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2006-05-30 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | System for programming hearing aids |
US20060245611A1 (en) * | 2003-06-04 | 2006-11-02 | Oticon A/S | Hearing aid with visual indicator |
US20070106344A1 (en) * | 2003-12-24 | 2007-05-10 | Cochlear Limited | Transformable speech processor module for a hearing prosthesis |
US7257372B2 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2007-08-14 | Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab | Bluetooth enabled hearing aid |
US20080137888A1 (en) * | 2006-09-18 | 2008-06-12 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. D/B/A Micro Tech | Wireless interface for programming hearing assistance devices |
US20080304686A1 (en) * | 2007-05-31 | 2008-12-11 | Cochlear Limited | Behind-the-ear (bte) prosthetic device with antenna |
US20090067653A1 (en) * | 2007-07-06 | 2009-03-12 | Cochlear Limited | Wireless communication between devices of a hearing prosthesis |
US7787647B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2010-08-31 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Portable system for programming hearing aids |
US20110249837A1 (en) * | 2010-04-08 | 2011-10-13 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Hearing assistance device with programmable direct audio input port |
Family Cites Families (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CH673551A5 (en) | 1987-10-28 | 1990-03-15 | Gfeller Ag Apparate Fabrik Fla | Hearing aid with direct audio input connection - provided by audio plug fitted into battery compartment upon battery removal |
FI101662B1 (en) | 1996-02-08 | 1998-07-31 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd | Hands-free arrangement of a mobile device |
US6154546A (en) | 1997-12-18 | 2000-11-28 | Resound Corporation | Probe microphone |
US6366863B1 (en) | 1998-01-09 | 2002-04-02 | Micro Ear Technology Inc. | Portable hearing-related analysis system |
US6434398B1 (en) | 2000-09-06 | 2002-08-13 | Eric Inselberg | Method and apparatus for interactive audience participation at a live spectator event |
US6620094B2 (en) | 2001-11-21 | 2003-09-16 | Otologics, Llc | Method and apparatus for audio input to implantable hearing aids |
US9100764B2 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2015-08-04 | Starkey Laboratory, Inc. | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
-
2007
- 2007-03-21 US US11/689,362 patent/US9100764B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2008
- 2008-03-07 CA CA002625236A patent/CA2625236A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2008-03-18 DK DK08250941.5T patent/DK1973379T3/en active
- 2008-03-18 EP EP08250941A patent/EP1973379B1/en not_active Not-in-force
Patent Citations (40)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3493695A (en) * | 1967-03-10 | 1970-02-03 | Fredrick J Stork | Hearing aid |
US4961230A (en) * | 1988-05-10 | 1990-10-02 | Diaphon Development Ab | Hearing aid programming interface |
US4961230B1 (en) * | 1988-05-10 | 1997-12-23 | Minnesota Mining & Mfg | Hearing aid programming interface |
US5515443A (en) * | 1993-06-30 | 1996-05-07 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Interface for serial data trasmission between a hearing aid and a control device |
US5389009A (en) * | 1993-07-27 | 1995-02-14 | Van Schenck, Iii; George A. | Battery substitute device |
US5502769A (en) * | 1994-04-28 | 1996-03-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Interface module for programmable hearing instrument |
US5717771A (en) * | 1995-03-01 | 1998-02-10 | Siemens Audiologische Technik Gmbh | Programmable hearing aid means worn in the auditory canal |
US5721783A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-02-24 | Anderson; James C. | Hearing aid with wireless remote processor |
US6157728A (en) * | 1996-05-25 | 2000-12-05 | Multitech Products (Pte) Ltd. | Universal self-attaching inductive coupling unit for connecting hearing instrument to peripheral electronic devices |
US6888948B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2005-05-03 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Portable system programming hearing aids |
US7054957B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2006-05-30 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | System for programming hearing aids |
US7929723B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2011-04-19 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Portable system for programming hearing aids |
US7787647B2 (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 2010-08-31 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Portable system for programming hearing aids |
US6144748A (en) * | 1997-03-31 | 2000-11-07 | Resound Corporation | Standard-compatible, power efficient digital audio interface |
US6078825A (en) * | 1998-02-20 | 2000-06-20 | Advanced Mobile Solutions, Inc. | Modular wireless headset system for hands free talking |
US6381308B1 (en) * | 1998-12-03 | 2002-04-30 | Charles H. Cargo | Device for coupling hearing aid to telephone |
US6319020B1 (en) * | 1999-12-10 | 2001-11-20 | Sonic Innovations, Inc. | Programming connector for hearing devices |
US6760457B1 (en) * | 2000-09-11 | 2004-07-06 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Automatic telephone switch for hearing aid |
US20020090099A1 (en) * | 2001-01-08 | 2002-07-11 | Hwang Sung-Gul | Hands-free, wearable communication device for a wireless communication system |
US7181032B2 (en) * | 2001-03-13 | 2007-02-20 | Phonak Ag | Method for establishing a detachable mechanical and/or electrical connection |
US20020131614A1 (en) * | 2001-03-13 | 2002-09-19 | Andreas Jakob | Method for establishing a detachable mechanical and/or electrical connection |
US20040077387A1 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2004-04-22 | Alban Sayag | Wireless assembly comprising an ear pad and an intermediate module connected to a mobile telephone |
US20040010181A1 (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2004-01-15 | Jim Feeley | BTE/CIC auditory device and modular connector system therefor |
US7139404B2 (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2006-11-21 | Hear-Wear Technologies, Llc | BTE/CIC auditory device and modular connector system therefor |
US20030045283A1 (en) * | 2001-09-06 | 2003-03-06 | Hagedoorn Johan Jan | Bluetooth enabled hearing aid |
US20030133582A1 (en) * | 2002-01-14 | 2003-07-17 | Siemens Audiologische Technik Gmbh | Selection of communication connections in hearing aids |
US20040136555A1 (en) * | 2003-01-13 | 2004-07-15 | Mark Enzmann | Aided ear bud |
US20040141628A1 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2004-07-22 | Fellowes, Inc. | Earpiece with interchangeable end portion |
US20060245611A1 (en) * | 2003-06-04 | 2006-11-02 | Oticon A/S | Hearing aid with visual indicator |
US20050008178A1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2005-01-13 | Sonion Roskilde A/S | Control panel with activation zone |
US7257372B2 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2007-08-14 | Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab | Bluetooth enabled hearing aid |
US20070106344A1 (en) * | 2003-12-24 | 2007-05-10 | Cochlear Limited | Transformable speech processor module for a hearing prosthesis |
US20050209657A1 (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2005-09-22 | King Chung | Enhancing cochlear implants with hearing aid signal processing technologies |
US20060039577A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-02-23 | Jorge Sanguino | Method and apparatus for wireless communication using an inductive interface |
US7813762B2 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2010-10-12 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Wireless communications adapter for a hearing assistance device |
US20060068842A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-03-30 | Jorge Sanguino | Wireless communications adapter for a hearing assistance device |
US20080137888A1 (en) * | 2006-09-18 | 2008-06-12 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. D/B/A Micro Tech | Wireless interface for programming hearing assistance devices |
US20080304686A1 (en) * | 2007-05-31 | 2008-12-11 | Cochlear Limited | Behind-the-ear (bte) prosthetic device with antenna |
US20090067653A1 (en) * | 2007-07-06 | 2009-03-12 | Cochlear Limited | Wireless communication between devices of a hearing prosthesis |
US20110249837A1 (en) * | 2010-04-08 | 2011-10-13 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Hearing assistance device with programmable direct audio input port |
Cited By (45)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7813762B2 (en) | 2004-08-18 | 2010-10-12 | Micro Ear Technology, Inc. | Wireless communications adapter for a hearing assistance device |
US20060068842A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-03-30 | Jorge Sanguino | Wireless communications adapter for a hearing assistance device |
US9774961B2 (en) | 2005-06-05 | 2017-09-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Hearing assistance device ear-to-ear communication using an intermediate device |
US11678128B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2023-06-13 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US10051385B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2018-08-14 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US9036823B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2015-05-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US9510111B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2016-11-29 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US11064302B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2021-07-13 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US10728678B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2020-07-28 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US10469960B2 (en) | 2006-07-10 | 2019-11-05 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals |
US10511918B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2019-12-17 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US11765526B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2023-09-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US9854369B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2017-12-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US8515114B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2013-08-20 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US11218815B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2022-01-04 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US9282416B2 (en) | 2007-01-03 | 2016-03-08 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes |
US9100764B2 (en) | 2007-03-21 | 2015-08-04 | Starkey Laboratory, Inc. | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device |
US20100142740A1 (en) * | 2007-04-16 | 2010-06-10 | Gn Resound A/S | Hearing aid wireless communication adaptor |
US8155362B2 (en) * | 2007-11-29 | 2012-04-10 | Plantronics, Inc. | Wireless listening system |
US20090141918A1 (en) * | 2007-11-29 | 2009-06-04 | Dutton Chris | Wireless listening system |
US9294852B2 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2016-03-22 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Sound processors and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US20110103627A1 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2011-05-05 | Meier Roger S | Sound processors and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US8437860B1 (en) | 2008-10-03 | 2013-05-07 | Advanced Bionics, Llc | Hearing assistance system |
US8750546B2 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2014-06-10 | Advanced Bionics | Sound processors and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US20140270299A1 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2014-09-18 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Sound processors and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US20120002831A1 (en) * | 2009-03-13 | 2012-01-05 | Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. | Electrical hearing aid adapter |
US8958590B2 (en) | 2009-09-21 | 2015-02-17 | Oticon A/S | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ITE-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a BTE-unit |
US20110069854A1 (en) * | 2009-09-21 | 2011-03-24 | Oticon A/S | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ite-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a bte-unit |
US8462972B2 (en) | 2009-09-21 | 2013-06-11 | Oticon A/S | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ITE-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a BTE-unit |
US10212682B2 (en) | 2009-12-21 | 2019-02-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Low power intermittent messaging for hearing assistance devices |
US11019589B2 (en) | 2009-12-21 | 2021-05-25 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Low power intermittent messaging for hearing assistance devices |
US8503708B2 (en) | 2010-04-08 | 2013-08-06 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Hearing assistance device with programmable direct audio input port |
US9210519B2 (en) | 2010-04-22 | 2015-12-08 | Sonova Ag | Hearing assistance system and method |
US9374648B2 (en) | 2010-04-22 | 2016-06-21 | Sonova Ag | Hearing assistance system and method |
WO2011131241A1 (en) | 2010-04-22 | 2011-10-27 | Phonak Ag | Hearing assistance system and method |
DE102010026378A1 (en) * | 2010-07-07 | 2011-07-21 | Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. | Communication module for hearing instrument i.e. behind-the-ear hearing aid, for wireless transmission and receiving of digital data, has transceiver transmitting or receiving data that is transmitted through inductive transmission unit |
US9491530B2 (en) | 2011-01-11 | 2016-11-08 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Sound processors having contamination resistant control panels and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US9609444B2 (en) | 2011-01-11 | 2017-03-28 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Sound processors having contamination resistant control panels and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
US20130010997A1 (en) * | 2011-07-04 | 2013-01-10 | Sony Corporation | Auricle-installed apparatus |
US9628922B2 (en) * | 2014-02-24 | 2017-04-18 | Gn Hearing A/S | Hearing aid radio power supply |
US10405108B2 (en) | 2014-02-24 | 2019-09-03 | Gn Hearing A/S | Hearing aid radio power supply |
US10003379B2 (en) | 2014-05-06 | 2018-06-19 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Wireless communication with probing bandwidth |
US10666067B2 (en) | 2018-06-19 | 2020-05-26 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Portable charging unit with accelerated charging for hearing assistance devices |
WO2021026474A1 (en) * | 2019-08-07 | 2021-02-11 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Connector tip with bristles for hearing instruments |
US11974099B2 (en) | 2022-01-31 | 2024-04-30 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Connector tip with bristles for hearing instruments |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2625236A1 (en) | 2008-09-21 |
DK1973379T3 (en) | 2012-11-26 |
EP1973379A2 (en) | 2008-09-24 |
US9100764B2 (en) | 2015-08-04 |
EP1973379B1 (en) | 2012-08-22 |
EP1973379A3 (en) | 2010-09-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US9100764B2 (en) | Systems for providing power to a hearing assistance device | |
US10666067B2 (en) | Portable charging unit with accelerated charging for hearing assistance devices | |
EP3273703B1 (en) | Modular hearing device | |
US9597522B2 (en) | Portable power charging of implantable medical devices | |
DK3101917T3 (en) | Detection of hearing aid configuration | |
US20190366103A1 (en) | Headpieceless hearing assistance apparatus, systems and methods with distributed power | |
US20060039577A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for wireless communication using an inductive interface | |
US9820063B2 (en) | Hearing aid with magnetostrictive electroactive sensor | |
US8625830B2 (en) | Modular hearing device | |
US8958590B2 (en) | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ITE-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a BTE-unit | |
US20120314893A1 (en) | Hearing aid with integrated telecoil and battery recharge coil | |
US20220394371A1 (en) | Ear-worn electronic system employing in-ear device and battery charging using at-ear device battery charger | |
US20070282394A1 (en) | Assistive listening technology integrated into a Behind-The-Ear sound processor | |
EP3892013B1 (en) | Ear-wearable device having tunnel with receiver coil | |
US20220109924A1 (en) | System for charging an ear-worn electronic device | |
CN107079226A (en) | Auditory prosthesis | |
US8462972B2 (en) | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source adapted for being charged through an ITE-unit, or a connector connectable to, or a connector of, a BTE-unit | |
EP2299731B1 (en) | Listening device with a rechargeable energy source, method, use and system thereof | |
EP4203499A2 (en) | Charger device for hearing devices |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: STARKEY LABORATORIES, INC., MINNESOTA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SOLUM, JEFFREY PAUL;SANGUINO, JORGE F.;REEL/FRAME:019237/0994 Effective date: 20070419 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CITIBANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, TEXAS Free format text: NOTICE OF GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS;ASSIGNOR:STARKEY LABORATORIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:046944/0689 Effective date: 20180824 |
|
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED FOR FAILURE TO PAY MAINTENANCE FEES (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: EXP.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
|
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20230804 |